Celebrate Squirrels with The Nut Job

Learn about these clever backyard thieves for Squirrel Appreciation Day and beyond

01-15-2014
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NWF Staff

THE FEDERATION IS TEAMING UP with Open Road Films and ToonBox Entertainment for the release of The Nut Job in theaters nationwide January 17. As the education partner for the new animated film, NWF is providing resources to help kids, parents and teachers celebrate some of our most clever, acrobatic backyard inhabitants on January 21,National Squirrel Appreciation Day.

In animated 3D, The Nut Job is an action-packed comedy that follows Surly (left, voiced by Will Arnett), a mischievous squirrel, who must plana heist to get into his town’s biggest nut shop so that his park pals can gather enough food to survive winter. With his sidekick, Buddy, he assembles a ragtag crew to help him get inside and takes them on a fun-filled adventure.

“National Wildlife Federation is the perfect education partner for this film,” says Arnett. “I am glad to be part of a project that shows how wonderful these sometimes-unappreciated animals can be.”

Katherine Heigl, who voices Andie in the film, says: “Having just made a film in which I play a squirrel, I’m very partial to them, and am delighted to hear that the National Wildlife Federation is celebrating National Squirrel Appreciation Day, encouraging us to celebrate backyard wildlife every day.”

“We hope the lesson of working together that Surly learns in the story will encourage students, teachers and adults to take action in their own community andhelp us plant treesto provide homes and food for squirrels and other wildlife through NWF’sTrees for Wildlife program.” says Carey Stanton, NWF senior director for education.